Welcome to our guide on how to change your company name on Companies House. If you’re considering a change company name companies house, whether it’s to update, amend, or rename your company, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of changing your company name, step by step.
When it comes to changing your company name on Companies House, there are a few key points to keep in mind. First and foremost, the new name must comply with all the rules for company names. Additionally, it’s important to note that the company name will not officially change until it is registered with Companies House.
You have two options for changing your company name: by a special resolution or with permission given in the company’s articles of association. Let’s explore each option in more detail.
Changing Company Name by a Special Resolution
To change your company name by a special resolution, you have the option to use the user-friendly Companies House online service. This convenient service is specifically designed for filing changes of name by special resolution. Alternatively, you can opt for the traditional approach and apply by post.
By using the Companies House online service, you can complete the entire name change process conveniently from your office or home. This efficient method ensures a faster processing time, allowing you to update your company’s name promptly. The cost for this online service is £8, providing an affordable and hassle-free solution.
If you prefer to apply by post, you will need to follow a few simple steps. Start by downloading and filling in form NM01, which is specifically for changing your company name. This form is available on the Companies House website, making it easily accessible. Remember to include a copy of the special resolution that authorizes the name change.
Once you have completed the necessary documentation, including form NM01 and the special resolution, you will need to send them along with a cheque for £10 to the address provided on the form. It’s important to note that the name change will not be processed until the resolution has been received and approved by Companies House. Therefore, it’s advisable to allow sufficient time for postal delivery and processing.
Whether you choose the convenience of the Companies House online service or the traditional approach of applying by post, it’s essential to ensure that your special resolution is in compliance with the regulations set by Companies House. By following the correct procedures and submitting the necessary forms and fees, you can successfully change your company’s name, reflecting your evolving business identity.
Now that you know how to change your company name by a special resolution, let’s explore an alternative method of changing your company name with permission from the articles of association in the next section.
| Companies House Online Service | Applying by Post |
| Access the user-friendly Companies House online service | Download form NM01 from the Companies House website |
| Complete the name change process online conveniently | Fill in form NM01 with the necessary details |
| Ensure the special resolution authorizing the name change is ready | Include a copy of the special resolution along with form NM01 |
| Pay a fee of £8 for the online service | Prepare a cheque for £10 payable to Companies House |
| Verify all information before submitting | Send the completed form NM01, special resolution, and cheque to the address provided on the form |
| Await processing and update of your company’s name | Allow sufficient time for postal delivery and processing |
| The name change will be processed upon receipt and approval of the special resolution | The resolution must be received and approved by Companies House before the name change is processed |
Changing Company Name with Permission from Articles of Association
If you have permission to change the company name from the articles of association, the process is straightforward. You will need to apply using form NM04, which can be downloaded from the Companies House website. Once downloaded, fill in the required information. Ensure that all the details are accurate and up-to-date.
Important: It’s crucial to follow the instructions on the form carefully and provide all the necessary information. Incomplete or incorrect forms may lead to delays or rejection of your application.
After completing the form, you’ll need to send it to Companies House along with a cheque for £10 to cover the filing fee. The address to send the form and payment is specified on the form itself. Once received, Companies House will review the application and verify the information provided.
Note: The name change will not be processed until the form and payment have been received and approved by Companies House. It’s important to allow sufficient time for the process to be completed. The processing time may vary depending on the workload of Companies House.
| Steps to Change Company Name with Permission from Articles of Association | |
|---|---|
| 1. Download form NM04 from the Companies House website | |
| 2. Fill in the required details accurately | |
| 3. Prepare a cheque for the filing fee (£10) | |
| 4. Send the completed form and cheque to the address provided on the form | |
| 5. Wait for approval from Companies House |
Once the name change has been approved, Companies House will update the records accordingly. It’s important to keep track of the progress of your application and follow up if you haven’t received any confirmation within the expected timeframe.
Remember: Changing the company name requires careful consideration and adherence to the guidelines set by Companies House. Ensure that the new name complies with all the requirements and is distinctive from existing company names. Additionally, inform relevant stakeholders about the name change and update any associated documents, such as contracts and licenses, to reflect the new company name.
Important Considerations for Changing Company Name
When changing the company name, it’s important to consider various aspects related to the company’s information. Beyond simply updating the name, there are other key areas that may require attention. Here are some important considerations:
Agreement from Company
Before proceeding with the name change, it is crucial to obtain agreement from the company itself. This ensures that the decision to modify the company name aligns with its overall vision and objectives. Consulting with fellow directors and stakeholders can help facilitate a smooth transition.
Updating Company Details
Changing the company name may also necessitate updates to additional details. These can include:
- Company Address: Review the registered address to ensure it accurately reflects the new name.
- Directors and Company Secretaries: Update the relevant records to reflect any changes in company leadership.
- Shares: If the restructuring of company shares is necessary, make sure to update this information accordingly.
- Constitution and Articles of Association: Explore whether amendments to the constitution and articles of association are required to align with the new company name.
By addressing these areas, you can ensure that the company’s information remains accurate and up to date, while maintaining compliance with relevant regulations.
Forms and Processes
To update the company’s details, the appropriate forms provided by Companies House should be completed. These forms vary depending on the nature of the updates required. Following the correct processes and providing accurate information helps to ensure a seamless transition.
Now that you are aware of these important considerations, you can confidently proceed with changing your company’s name, knowing that you have taken all the necessary steps for a successful transition.
| Consideration | Description |
|---|---|
| Agreement from Company | Obtain agreement from the company and its stakeholders before proceeding with the name change. |
| Updating Company Details | Review and update the company’s address, directors and secretaries, shares, and constitution and articles of association. |
| Forms and Processes | Complete the appropriate forms and follow the required processes outlined by Companies House. |
Conclusion
Changing the company name on Companies House is a straightforward process that can be done online or by post. By following the correct procedures and submitting the necessary forms and fees, you can successfully update your company’s name. It’s important to ensure that the new name complies with all the rules for company names.
When changing the company name, it’s also advisable to consider updating other relevant information associated with the name change, such as the company address and the details of directors and secretaries. These updates can be done separately through the appropriate forms and processes provided by Companies House.
Overall, with careful adherence to the guidelines provided by Companies House, you can navigate the process of changing your company name in the UK smoothly and efficiently.
FAQ
Can I change my company name on Companies House?
Yes, you can change your company name on Companies House by following the necessary procedures and requirements.
How can I change my company name by a special resolution?
You can change your company name by a special resolution using the Companies House online service or by downloading and filling in form NM01 and sending it to Companies House by post along with a cheque for £10.
What is the cost of using the Companies House online service to change my company name by a special resolution?
The cost for using the Companies House online service to change your company name by a special resolution is £8.
How can I change my company name with permission from the articles of association?
To change your company name with permission from the articles of association, you need to download and fill in form NM04 and send it to Companies House by post along with a cheque for £10.
What should I consider when changing my company name?
When changing your company name, it is important to consider factors such as obtaining the agreement from your company, updating other details like the company address and details of directors and secretaries, and ensuring compliance with the rules for company names.
